So you enjoy making wreaths and have decided to go into business
for yourself. Congratulations, that sounds like a positive idea
and hopefully will be a profitable one. First, however, you will
want to make your business plans so that your start up won't
also be your shut down. You will want first of all to make sure
of your work space. Do you have an area that can be dedicated
specifically to wreath making? Making wreaths in front of the TV
is one thing when it's a hobby/craft project but are you, and
other family members, going to be willing for this space to be
dedicated full time to wreath making? If not, do you have
another place in your home that can be used as your place of
business, perhaps a little used guest room or a part of the
basement could be dedicated to this.
Once you have your work area secured, what about a storage area
for finished wreaths and for materials? There may be times when
you will want to temporarily store some of your wreaths until an
order is completed. For some wreaths, this will call for a cold
or cool area where they can be properly maintained. Also, buying
materials in bulk at bargain rates is a bonus, but you'll need
to be able to store the materials properly.
Designing and printing up a brochure and some business cards is
a good idea also. Not all potential customers will be able to
talk with you immediately, but having a business card and
brochure to leave will give them the opportunity to check over
your product a little more closely on their own.
You will also need a name for your business. You will need
something to put on those brochures and business cards.
A product display unit is nice also. Making a photo album of
your wreaths will enable you to show potential customers
something of your work without trying to carry a lot of it
around with you.
You might want to talk with the bank also and find out about
setting up a business checking account. Many wholesalers insist
that customers must use business checks in order to prove that
they are a legitimate business.
You will need a bookkeeping system also so that you can keep
track of how much you are taking in and paying out. Also, when
tax time comes, and it will, this will be a big asset to you and
may just help you in making sure that you are remembering
everything. Also, you may be able to deduct a certain percentage
of your household expenses as business expenses if your business
is being run from your home. This also includes gas and wear and
tear on your vehicle.
Lastly, you will need a sales book and pen. Go out and get
orders, don't take more than you can fill, and don't forget to
enjoy yourself. Congratulations on your new business.
|
Categories 
